Administering appropriate respiratory vaccines before sale and commingling is crucial for providing immunity during the stocker and feedlot stages of the beef supply chain.
Summarizing research on beef calf preconditioning programs, Paul Vining says proper vaccination against BRD-related pathogens during calfhood establishes robust immunity. This enhances calf welfare and improves performance and overall value throughout the beef supply chain.
Fifty years and counting. Sometimes I wonder if producers will ever “get it”. – Kirk Augustine
Source: Drovers, January 1, 2024. Link.
Related: 6 tips for easing calves into the feedlot for finishing, Feed Strategy, December 27, 2023. Link. Feeding calves entering a feedlot is an important part of their growth and development, especially in the context of health and welfare.
Most calves enter feedlots without preconditioning. This is something that should be done at the origin farm, but it costs money and, if this expense is not covered by the buyer, then the rancher has no incentive to invest into it.” – Ioannis Mavromichalis, PhD